Episode 77: Bonus - I’m off

Dad, Mum, today is the day I will put everything I’ve learnt from Dad into practice on the basketball court.

It might be my last tournament in high school, or perhaps I’ll still get to play more matches. But I want to keep playing basketball as a high school student for just a little while longer, so I’m going to give it my all today.

Also, I’m a bit late telling you, but I’ve found someone I like.

　She’s incredibly kind, cute, beautiful, and clever. She’s a bit clumsy, but she’s like a star who always shines a bright light on me when I’m in the dark.

I’m doing my best to build a loving relationship with her, just like you two have.

It’s a one-sided crush at the moment, so I feel like I might lose heart.

I’m joking, of course, but I do wish I could get some dating advice from you both.

　She’s very popular, so I’ve ended up competing with a younger student for her.

I know Dad would tell me off for using sport in this way, but I’m sorry, it’s a contest I simply can’t back down from, so I’d be grateful if you could watch over me.

I’d like you both to meet her too, so I hope to bring her to see you one day.

I see today as both the culmination of many things and a new step in my life.

I’d be so happy if you could watch over me from heaven.

　I am happy every day.

There have been many difficult and painful times, but I am happy.

I have been blessed with wonderful friends.

I have been blessed with wonderful juniors.

And I have met someone I love dearly, someone who is incredibly important to me and whom I want to be with forever.

Dad, Mum, thank you for always watching over me.

Right then, I’m off.

I clasped my hands in prayer before the family altar and got ready to head to the competition.